rafters for storage?

[slakwhere]

i read here a while back that newer construction garage ceilings are NOT built for storage, only to hold the ceiling drywall up and possibly some insulation. how can i tell if i can store "light" stuff up there? obviously i don't want to store a stack of cinder blocks, but luggage and misc light bits would be nice... and maybe my compresor

can i simply look at material sizes and widths? is there some simple telltale sign?

if they're capable of storage, should i just put some 1/2" ply on top and screw them in for a flooring?

 

[mgilde13]

Are there any manufacturing labels or stamps on them? You best resource would be to contact the manufacturer directly and ask them about your specific trusses.

 

[rlitman]

You can consult the American Wood Council's wood span tables, and calculate the static and dynamic PSF load the joists (not rafters) can support.
Adding decking (I would suggest 3/4" ply at a minimum), will increase the strength significantly (at least 15%) if it's well attached, as will adding blocking between the joists.

 

[KELLHAMMER]

What type of framing is it ? A roof truss? or conventional stick framing? any Engineeered lumber? Spacing of members, Sizes and spans are helpful to make any sort of assement

 

[slakwhere]

this is a new garage/home i am closing on next week, so i haven't actually seen up there with my own eyes. it's all drywalled but no insulation in teh walls and no access hole cut, so i'll have to cut some access and get up there to take some measurements/pictures.

 

[KELLHAMMER]

No access? Did you get home inspection? Depending on the size of the space for the "attic" building code requires an access. Might not be in the garage ceiling. Sometimes the access comes from the second floor ajoining the garage roof. Simple fact, not all attics are designed for storage. Again, it is determined by building code. When they are designed for storage, at a minmum it's light storage. Empty boxes christmas decorations etc. Unless they took an extrodinary step of designing it for more than light storage (20psf)

 

[Stuart in MN]

In general, W style roof trusses are not designed for storing anything. However, 'light storage' - boxes of Christmas ornaments, a few 2x4s - isn't going to hurt anything. There are storage trusses that frame out an attic space.